Photo by Felix Mizioznikov/Adobe StockDespite sparse coverage on national news, the devastation left in Hurricane Helenes wake is unimaginable, according to those with boots on the ground in North Carolina. According to military and government personnel, due to the storms extensive damage, rescue and relief efforts will continue for weeks and months as they attempt to aid people and animals stranded in the wake of this recent storm, especially those in rural, mountain towns.One of my little riding lesson students once said that making new friends at the barn is really easy, because horse people are just different. And as an adult, I cant agree with her more. Equestrians are a different breed, and when our fellow horse lovers or their beloved animals are in need of help, our community is always ready to help. So heres what you need to know:First and Foremost: Civilians, Please Stay Home!Government officials, military leaders, are insisting that civilians stay out of affected areas, including Asheville, Boone, and Candor. It has continued to rain in many of the heavily affected areas since the start of the storm, so the water hasnt had time to recede. Access to many of the small, rural, mountain towns is impossible by motor vehicle; many affected areas are currently only accessible by air due to washed out roadways or landslides. There have also been episodes of violence upon relief workers and people bringing food or supplies into the area because the people stranded in these mountain areas are getting very desperate. Civilians who want to help should not attempt to enter these areas. Trained professionals like police and members of the military need to be able to do their jobs, and untrained civilians trying to help end up doing more harm than good. They block roadways, and often get themselves into situations that they need rescued from, taking time and resources from rescue efforts.The Best Way to Help is with Your WalletIn these first days, rescue efforts are focused mainly on human lives and in reality, animals can only receive the care theyneed if their humans also have their most basic necessities met.But animal and equine rescue organizations are mobilizing, and these organizations will be working for weeks and months ahead.Currently, the best way to help is to donate.Here are some organizations that will be in desperate need of financial support in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead: American Red Cross North Carolina: In order for animals to get the care and help that they need, their humans need to be safe as well. To make a financial donation, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767), text HELENE to 90999, or donate online. Operation Airdrop ensures that essential supplies reach those in need when ground transportation is compromised. For more information about Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts, visit here. ASAR (Animal Search and Rescue) is staged in Statesville and providing immediate relief for animals in the mountains. Visit here to help. Fleet of Angels is an equine-specific rescue organization that is currently organizing vets, equine supplies, and relief for horses. To help equines affected by Hurricane Helene, donate to the most urgent need or natural disaster fundhere. The Humane Society of the United States is also in action in the Southeast, supporting animals. Please visithereto donate.The post Hurricane Helene Relief: Donations Needed for Human, Equine, and Other Animal Aid appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The cases are located in Chaudire-Appalaches and Montrgie.The post 3 Quebec Horses Positive for WNV appeared first on The Horse.

The horses lived in Outaouais and were euthanized. The post 2 Unvaccinated Quebec Horses Contract EEE appeared first on The Horse.

Photo by Tilly Berendt.A few personnel and staffing changes at the FEI lead off our news round-up this morning as the international governing body has announced a new Director of Eventing to replace Catrin Norinder upon retirement after 37 years of service.For her part, Catrin Norinder has been involved in the organization of equestrian sports at the Olympic Games starting with Seoul the same year she was hired (1988). She also played a key role in the creation of the Eventing Risk Management Program.Frdrique Reffet Plantier will take over as Director of Eventing in 2025. Photo courtesy of the FEI.Frdrique Reffet Plantier will now step up to replace Catrin, effective January 1, 2025. Catrin will stay on in a consulting role for the first part of 2025 to assist with the handover of the role. An FEI press release about the appointment reads:Working with the FEI since 2012, Reffet Plantier started in the Eventing and Olympic Department working closely with the Director and colleagues on all aspects of event and competition management, FEI Committee administration, and the development of risk management practices within the discipline.In 2021, she transitioned into the role of Senior Manager within the office of the FEI Secretary General, allowing her to gain valuable experience in governance and decision-making, significantly expanding her skill set in both leadership and management.Throughout her time at the FEI, we have had the pleasure of observing Frdriques significant contributions across her various roles, FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibez said.She has approached each challenge with unwavering professionalism and has demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage complex projects.Frdrique is well placed to take on this key role within the organisation, with her comprehensive knowledge of the Eventing discipline and her familiarity with the internal workings of the FEI governance structures. Her inclusive and supportive nature has made her a trusted and valued member of the FEI team at our headquarters in Lausanne and we are excited to see the next chapter of the FEI Eventing Department develop under her leadership.Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee and former Olympic Eventing gold medallist from the USA, David OConnor said, Frdrique brings to the Directors position a deep understanding of the operational framework of the Eventing discipline, practical experience in implementing these elements at events worldwide, and a sound awareness of horses as an avid equestrian herself.Throughout her involvement in the sports evolution, Frdrique has played a crucial role in significant decisions, including changes to the Olympic format and advancements in Eventing Risk Management.Having witnessed Frdriques growth within the sport, I am confident that her respect for its history, combined with her openness to new approaches for future advancement, makes her the ideal candidate for the Director of Eventing position.In other personnel news from the FEI, its Communications Director, Olivia Robinson, has also departed from her role after 18 years of service. The governing body will now reassess its operations and departments with findings to be reported in the coming months.U.S. Weekend PreviewThe Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteeer]Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times]Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]News & ReadingOcalas World Equestrian Center housed 1,200 horses during Hurricane Helene. What goes into this effort to help keep horses and humans safe during extreme weather events? Read more here.Tryon Equestrian Resort has also been providing updates from Helene as the North Carolina and Tennessee areas continue to recover from massive damages done by the storm.Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program Championships, which were to be held at Stable View this weekend, have been postponed to October 24-27 as the venue continues to grapple with damage done as Helene moved through Aiken. Declarations and entries have subsequently been extended to October 15, and full refunds will be given to any competitors provided they scratch by October 4. More information here.British Equestrian has unveiled a new Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, which includes six key strategic objectives outlined through research for Horses For All. More information on this plan here. How can you overcome the things that overwhelm you, especially when it comes to competitive environments? Coach Daniel Stewart has some advice in his latest Pressure Proof column for the USEA, and it involves things we can practice both in and out of the saddle. Read more here.Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International & H.T.We cant wait to spend a day in the country with you next weekend at the Morven Park Fall International & H.T.! With eventing action and championships happening at multiple levels, a slew of awards on offer for top performers, and plenty of ways to enhance the spectator experience, this is truly a fall event not to be missed. Tailgate and VIP opportunities start at just $150, and you can secure your spot here and here.Video BreakGet excited for Morven Park with us!

OTTB trainer Aubrey Graham. Photo courtesy of Ride iQ / Kassie A. Colson.A good Thoroughbred is still the ultimate athlete for the sport of eventing. Their athleticismand in particular, their gallopis hard for any other breed of horse to match. Getting a Thoroughbred off the racetrack is also one of the most affordable ways to get into the sport because off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) are generally a fraction of the price of purpose-bred warmbloods.However, switching careers can be challenging for a horse. Asking a racehorse to become an eventer is a bit like asking an engineer to become a lawyer. Some aspects of the job might be the same, but shifting careers can present real challenges and there is often a tough adjustment period. The horse has to learn an entirely new set of skills, and they might have some baggage from their years at the track that makes it hard to become an event horse.In partnership with the Retired Racehorse Project, Ride iQ produced a 10-lesson series to help riders bring along their OTTBs. Ride iQ coach Aubrey Grahamholds your hand through these lessons as she helps you take your horse from basic groundwork exercises to flatwork and eventually jumping.Aubreys main focus is restarting OTTBs, and each year she contributes to the training of, on average, at least 50 Thoroughbreds. She also specializes in horses that are known for having extensive training issues or have been labeled problem horses. Aubrey is also the founder of Thoroughbred Logic, which includes a series of articles published weekly on ENs sister site,Horse Nation, as well as nationally-held masterclasses and clinics.Having such an experienced horsewoman walk you through the steps of restarting your OTTB is a real advantage, especially if you are doing most of the restarting yourself. Through the course of this series, Aubrey works with a 4 year-old Thoroughbred that she is retraining. Whether your horse is four, or six, or eight, the lessons are broadly applicable for any horse switching careers.To me, one of the most rewarding aspects of training horses is learning how they think and what makes them tick. We have a young OTTB at the moment who I believe has the qualities to be a top eventer. About a year ago, we were out hacking and introduced him to his first water jump, which is a wide stream near our farm. He was quite suspicious at first, and would not go in even with a lead horse. We let him stand there and sniff the edge and think about the question for about two minutes with no pressure. Then, like a light switch, he walked straight in. We learned a lot about that horse from that experiencethat he likes to have a moment to figure out the question being asked, and then he is more than willing to attempt to give you the right answer. That way of processing information has in turn informed our further training with that horse, and we will keep that in mind for years to come.The Ride iQ OTTB restarting series is valuable because it will help you figure out what makes your horse tick. You may not follow the exact program that Aubrey presents, and that is entirely okay. The main goal is to build a partnership with your horse and find the best way of communicating with your horse, both from the ground and from the saddle.One of my first Advanced horses, Jokers Win, raced over 50 times and then competed in over 65 recognized eventing competitions through the 4* level. He is now semi-retired and still enjoys flatwork and trail riding. That horse taught me what cross country was supposed to feel like, and he was an amazing and generous partner. He was also restarted by a professional rider, who carefully took him from the track into an established eventing program. That smooth transition from racing to eventing is what allowed him to be successful for so many years in the sport of eventing. Having a well-thought out plan like the one Ride iQ provides in this series with Aubrey Graham is a great first step to making your OTTBs transition smooth. Enlisting additional help from an experienced trainer will also ensure that you have a wonderful partner with which to enjoy the sport for years to come.

Coldcroft Shires will no longer offer carriage rides from 2025 due to road safety concerns.The Gloucestershire-based shire horse centre, which is run by Jamie Alcock, has been offering two-hour carriage rides around the local parishes since 2019 but will no longer operate them from 2025 due to the increased risk of being on the roads.The roads have never been brilliant but there has been a noticeable deterioration in the last 12 months and Ive made the call that its just too dangerous out there, said Jamie.Im not offering the experience people wantThere were six occasions where we were nearly hit in one carriage ride recently. Before you might have had a bit of an issue once a week but now its every time I go out. Its not fair on the horses, Im not enjoying it and Im not offering the experience people in the carriage want.Jamie has experienced many incidents of vehicles passing too close, tailgating, overtaking on blind bends and driving too fast.The roads around the farm are rural country lanes and there isnt an awful lot of space. I tend to keep the carriage off the lanes which are too narrow and use ones with plenty of passing places but I noticed early on this year how aggressive drivers have become. They push past you so the nearside wing mirror is only a couple of inches from the horse, they overtake in places they wouldnt risk overtaking any other vehicle and they drive too fast, continued Jamie.I believe whats going on on the roads is symptomatic of other things like the Covid lockdown and the cost of living crisis. People are a lot less happy, they are worried about money and these things contribute to the choices they make in every day life.From 1 April 2025, Jamie will offer shorter carriage rides around his farm in Taynton with the opportunity to stop for a picnic and there will also be the option to take the miniature Shetlands for a walk around the farm. His hands-on shire horse experiences will continue to take place.Further readingDriver hands himself in after hitting pony and rider on the roadEvery rider makes a difference: hundreds take part in Pass Wide and Slow awareness ridesMan and two Shires set off on 650-mile ride to police officer brothers grave to raise money for charityFarmer, Shires and dog embark on second epic endurance challengeThe post Its just too dangerous out there: shire horse centre stops carriage rides due to road safety concerns appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Providing Adequate Shade and Shelter Ensure areas for horses to escape the sun, such as shade trees, lean-to buildings, or shade structures. Ensuring Proper Hydration Provide constant access to clean, fresh water; consider adding salt to feed to encourage drinking. Adjusting Feeding Practices Use grazing muzzles to control calorie intake; transition gradually to summer pasture. Managing Exercise and Workload Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat; plan workouts for cooler parts of the day. Preventing Heat Stress Recognize symptoms like excessive sweating and heavy breathing; apply cold water to specific areas if overheating occurs. Special Considerations for Vulnerable Horses Older, overweight horses and young foals need special care, including regular vet check-ups and monitoring. Fly Control and Ventilation Use fly repellents and ensure good airflow in stables or barns. Trailer Safety Stop every 4-6 hours for rest and watering breaks; avoid leaving horses in parked trailers for extended periods. Additional Tips Use fans for cooling; avoid excessive leg protection like boots and bandages on hot days. How Can Horse Owners Best Manage Their Equine Companions During Hot Weather? As the summer months approach, horse owners face a critical challenge: ensuring their equine companions remain healthy and comfortable in the hot weather. Managing horses during this period is crucial to prevent heat-related issues, maintain their overall health, and ensure their well-being. Here are some essential tips and considerations to help you manage your horse effectively during the hot weather. Providing Adequate Shade and Shelter One of the most fundamental aspects of managing horses in hot weather is providing ample shade and shelter. Direct sunlight can quickly lead to overheating, so it is vital to offer areas where your horse can escape the sun. Large shade trees, lean-to buildings, or even specially designed shade structures can serve as excellent tools to protect your horse from the intense sun. Ensuring Proper Hydration Proper hydration is key to preventing heat stress and other heat-related issues in horses. Ensure your horse has constant access to clean, fresh water. In hot conditions, horses can drink significantly more water than usual, often up to 10-12 gallons per day for an adult horse. Adding salt to your horses feed or providing 24/7 access to salt blocks can encourage them to drink more water, which is essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and overall hydration. Adjusting Feeding Practices During hot weather, it is important to adjust your horse's feeding practices to help them manage the heat. Horses that are prone to conditions such as equine metabolic syndrome and laminitis need to be kept on a controlled diet to avoid consuming too much sugar from the grass. Using a grazing muzzle can help limit their calorie intake while still allowing them to spend time in the field. Additionally, transitioning your horse from winter grazing to fresh summer pasture should be done gradually over several days or weeks to prevent digestive issues such as diarrhea and colic. Managing Exercise and Workload Exercise and workload management are critical during hot weather. Avoid strenuous activities during the peak heat hours of the day (usually between 11 AM and 3 PM) and instead plan workouts for the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening. Monitor your horse's behavior and signs of distress during exercise, such as excessive sweating, heavy breathing, or reluctance to continue. Taking frequent breaks to let your horse cool down is also beneficial. Preventing Heat Stress Heat stress is a significant risk for horses in hot weather. Recognizing the symptoms and implementing preventive measures is essential. Symptoms of heat stress include excessive sweating, heavy breathing, and reluctance to move. If you suspect your horse is overheating, apply cold water to the areas where blood vessels are more prominent, such as the head, neck, back, and rib area. For horses that have seriously overheated, it is recommended to provide 10 to 14 days of rest with some turnout and a gradual return to work. Special Considerations for Vulnerable Horses Certain horses are more vulnerable to heat stress, including older horses, overweight horses, and very young foals. These horses require special care: Older and Overweight Horses: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor their overall health and detect any early signs of heat-related issues. Adjust their diet to maintain a healthy weight and ensure adequate hydration. Young Foals: Foals have poor thermoregulating ability and can quickly overheat. Keep a close eye on them, especially during periods of activity, and ensure they have access to shade and cool water. Fly Control and Ventilation Fly control is another important aspect of managing horses in hot weather. Flies can cause significant discomfort and stress, which can exacerbate heat-related issues. Use fly repellents, fans, and other measures to keep flies at bay. Proper ventilation in stables or barns is also essential to maintain a comfortable temperature for the horses. Ensure good airflow to prevent the buildup of heat and humidity. Check out Just Horse Riders' Horse Fly Protection collection for effective solutions. Trailer Safety If you need to transport your horse during hot weather, it is crucial to ensure trailer safety. Stop every four to six hours for rest and watering breaks, each lasting at least 20 minutes. Park in shaded areas and avoid leaving your horse in a parked trailer for extended periods to prevent overheating. Additional Tips Use Fans Fans can be very effective in keeping your horse cool, especially in stalls or lean-to buildings. They help move air and provide relief from the heat. Avoid Excessive Leg Protection On very hot days, avoid using boots and bandages as they can insulate the legs and raise the limbs internal temperature, potentially damaging the tendons. By following these tips and considerations, you can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related issues and ensure your horse remains healthy and comfortable during the hot summer months. Conclusion Managing your horse during the hot summer months is a multifaceted task that demands your attention and care. From providing adequate shade and ensuring proper hydration to adjusting feeding practices and managing exercise, each step plays a crucial role in maintaining your horses health and well-being. Remember to take special considerations for vulnerable horses and always keep an eye out for signs of heat stress. By doing so, you'll ensure that your equine companion stays happy and healthy throughout the summer. For more detailed information and specific advice tailored to your horse's needs, you can refer to the following resources: Keeping Your Horse Cool in Hot Summer Weather Horses in hot weather - UK-VET Equine Understanding Symptoms & Prevention of Heat Stress in Horses Essential Tips for Horse Owners in the Hot Months - HAPPA Tips: Keeping Your Horse Cool in Summer | GlobalVetLink

There may be times when the adventurous side of you yearns for exciting new trailsand that may mean choosing to ride on trails that have been designed for more than just horses. Depending on your chosen location and the time of year, you and your horse might find yourself trail riding on a multi-use trail, which means sharing the trail with hikers, dogs, ATVs, bicycles, hunters, and more.Photo by Holly CaccamiseThese additional users of the trail can complicate your riding plans, but there are multiple ways to prepare your horse for these unknowns. At the same time, its always a good idea to study trail etiquette to help you better cope with other trail users as well.Table of ContentsToggleAcclimate at Home FirstTry Equestrian-Only TrailsATVs and UTVsBicyclesHuntersDismounting if NeededCommunicate with Other Trail UsersBe CourteousAcclimate at Home FirstThink about all the practice and training you and your horse put into preparing for a class at a show: mastering that lead change, working on collecting, nailing a jump distance. You wouldnt dream of tackling one of these skills for the first time in front of the judge.Its really no different with trail riding. Even though it may seem like a simple, low-pressure environment, you really need to employ the same training-first mindset to ensure enjoyment and safety for you and your horse. This includes preparing for whatever you and your horse may encounter while riding on a multi-use trail.Try Equestrian-Only TrailsSee if you can get your horse out of the arena and away from the familiarity of his everyday environment while still in a horses-only situation. Maybe this involves riding in a pasture your horse doesnt normally access, or riding on some other part of your own property where the setting is unfamiliar but where possible surprises are limited.Finally, you could experiment with trailering your horse to equestrian-only trails in your area, if they exist.In any case, the idea is to make sure your horse is calm on the trail in normal circumstances before adding the possibility of encountering other trail users.Ride with another seasoned trail horse and friend (or more than one!) and let them take the lead, which will help give your horse confidence.Ride with one or more seasoned trail horses and let them take the lead if your horse is new to trail riding. Photo by Daniel JohnsonATVs and UTVsATVs and UTVs are naturally a spooking hazard for horses. Not only are they loud, but the engines on these machines also tend to accelerate rapidly from low to high RPMs, creating a startling noise. The good news is you can work to desensitize your horse ahead of time by exposing him to these sights and sounds in a safe, controlled environment.ATVs and UTVs can make very loud noises that startle horses. Photo by Irinamaksimova/Adobe StockOnce on the trail, if you hear a machine approaching, try stopping, moving as far as you safely can to the side of the trail, and then waiting for the ATV/UTV to either pass or stop and yield to you.You may wish to forgo trails that are heavily used by ATVs or UTVs. In addition to the noise and action, these trails may become worn or muddy from heavy use, especially during spring or autumn transitional seasons.BicyclesAt first glance, it might seem like it would be easier to share the trail with cyclists than ATVsafter all, bicycles make far less noise. But some bikers reach very high speeds on a trail, and the lack of noise prior to their arrival may give you and your horse less time to react and prepare, especially around bends in the trail. Such a situation could really trigger the predator flight response in your horse.Newer electric bikes are gaining in popularity, and you may start seeing them on trails. Although they have some motor noise to warn you they are coming, e-bikes move much quicker than traditional bicycles, and may surprise both you and your horse.Again, desensitizing at home is wise, especially if the trail you are using is popular with cyclists. Communication with the cyclists can also be key (see below).HuntersIf your trail of choice winds through rural areas or even crosses into wilderness regions, its quite possible youll find yourself sharing it with hunters of all sorts. Some of these you may never see or hear; the only indication of their presence may be a parked vehicle or ATV.Others may have a more visible presence; you and your horse may see orange- or camo-clad hunters out enjoying nature the same way you are, moving in and out of the trail.A good plan is to do your research. What hunting seasons are open in the area where you plan to ride? This information is easily obtained from your states Department of Natural Resources website and can have a meaningful impact on your plans.Learn when hunting season is coming through your area; you may wish to avoid trail riding during these times. Photo by RobertNyholm/Adobe StockDepending on the region, some hunting seasons for specific species are long and rather low-key, attracting few hunters and spreading out the action so that no one weekend is busier than another.Other hunting seasons may be short and intense, attracting large numbers of hunters and creating plenty of trail traffic. You might wish to adjust your riding schedule to avoid the most popular hunts in a particular region. Again, its all about respecting other users of the trail and trying to work with everyone.Theres also the matter of gunshots; responsible hunters wont be using firearms when at close range to the trail, but the sound of a gunshot naturally carries a good distance. If your horse is particularly spooky about loud noises, it might be another thing to work on in training.Dismounting if NeededIf something unusual is happening or your horse seems worried, you may want to consider dismounting until the situation has passed. It all depends on the comfort level of you and your horse, but you can certainly keep dismounting in mind as a safety option in some situations.Communicate with Other Trail UsersRemember that other users of the trail probably arent horse people. Their horse-startling behaviors, such as revving an engine or suddenly moving a scary object, probably arent intended to be discourteous.Along with putting in training time, you have a responsibility to explain what you need to other trail users when you come upon each other. The following are some examples of dialogue that help put everyone at ease:My horse is a little skittish about your ATV; if you could just slowly and quietly pass, or shut off your machine and Ill pass you.I think my horse is a little afraid of your hiking backpack, so if you could just talk softly as you pass it will help put him at ease.Good morning, would you mind putting a leash your dog until I pass with my horse?Most people will be happy to comply with requests like these, and such dialogue encourages cooperation so that everyone can enjoy the trail.Be CourteousAlso remember that people might be intimidated by your horse. Its easy to forget that not everyone spends time around 1,200-pound animals regularly, so a passing hiker or cyclist may feel unsure.Good communication etiquette is helpful here as well. Be courteous and friendly. Technically, other trail users must always yield to equestrians, but there may be plenty of situations where it simply makes more sense to stop your horse and let the other trail users pass.Also, be sure to clean up after your horse; the next non-horsey hiker or cyclist will thank you. And you may want to avoid riding on soft trails after rainstorms where your horse will leave significant divots from his footprints.Just like safe driving means being responsible and working with others on the road, sharing a multi-use trail safely just requires some planning and effort on your part, along with a little caution. Theres no reason that multiple types of recreation cant take place simultaneously.Happy trails!This article about riding horses on multi-use trails appeared in the August 2023 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Riding Horses on Multi-Use Trails appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Have you ever brought your horse in from the field or entered their stable and discovered that they have a swollen leg and/or the leg feels warm to touch?Noticing thatyour horse has a swollenlimb(or sometimes more than one) is something that most owners have experienced at one point or another.Some swellings are innocuous, while others are potentially a sign of something serious and could lead to a claim on your horse health insurance policy.Either way, it can be a worrying time for horse owners and riders and its important to know how to deal with a swollen leg.Possible causes of a swollen legHeat and swelling in your horses legs are relatively common and there are several possible causes.It may be something as simple as fluid build-up from standing in the stable for prolonged periods or could be more serious, such as a tendon injury.If your horses leg (or several legs) are swollen there could be a number of causes, including:Long periods of confinement, such as standing still in a stable, after exercise.Not having enough freedom to move around in generalHaving too much protein in their dietBruisingOverexposure to moistureOverfeeding/obesityTrauma/ injury to the limbInfectionInsect biteScrapes/woundsInflammation of the skinInflammation of the tissueAn allergic reactionInflammation of the vesselsAbscessesHow to assess a swollen legIf you notice that your horse has swelling in a limb, the first thing to do is assess it to decide whether it requires veterinary attention by doing the following:Firstly, check the swelling by slowly running your hands over the swollen leg to feel for any heat and gently palpate the region to identify any tenderness.If your horse flinches in response to your touch or his skin feels warmer in these areas compared to elsewhere on his legs, they may be experiencing an acute inflammatory reaction.If neither heat nor pain accompanies your horses swelling, they probably have a non-acute condition, such as windgalls or filled legs.An acute swelling thats warm and tender to the touch suggests a recent injury or a developing infection.With infection, the area may feel hot and be painful to touch, so its worth checking your horses temperature and look carefully for any wounds such as small puncture wounds or any cuts that are oozing.An acute or new swelling, especially if accompanied by heat and in just one leg or that is affecting a joint, is a reason to call your vet, as is swelling associated with lameness.Types of swellingCellulitisAlso called septic cellulitis, cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body, but in horses the infection commonly occurs in one of the hind legs. Cellulitis typically starts with sudden swelling that is warm and painful to the touch. Veterinary attention is required. Dr Aoife Byrne discusses more about this sinister cause of a swollen leg here.LymphangitisLymphangitisis inflammation of the lymph vessels most usually in the limbs and typically appears as a hot, painful, extremely swollen limb, usually the hind leg. Severe lymphangitis can be difficult to treat and requires veterinary attention.OedemaOedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid under the skin that has settled to the lowest point of the body. They are usually painless and will disappear with increased circulation of the lymphatic system.StrainsSprains and strains involving tendons, ligaments or a joint capsule will often produce inflammation, pain, swelling and lameness, and require immediate veterinary attention.WindgallsWindgalls are residual inflammations from old tendon and ligament injuries. They usually occur on the back of the leg, at or just above fetlock level.Windgallsnormally occur on both hind legs, although they occasionally appear on just one leg and sometimes can also be found in the front legs. They are usually painless and will often disappear during exercise and movement.Hoof abscessFootabscessesare associated with sudden onset severe lameness and often cause legs to fill due to the inflammatory processes occurring in the foot. Your vet and/or farrier should be called out to locate and release the infection from the abscess, after which the foot should be poulticed to draw out any remaining infection.Filled legsFilled legs is the term used to describe a condition in which the length of a horses leg (more commonly the hind pair) appear swollen.Its often the result of the horse standing in his stable for longer than normal and not doing enough exercise. Once the horse has started moving, the swelling often dissipates.Degenerative joint diseaseDJD is the most common type of arthritis in horses. It is a chronic disease in which the cartilage on the ends of bones wears down, resulting in loss of joint mobility, swelling, heat and pain.ArthritisArthritis is very common in horses, especially in theageing population. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain and inflammation. Over time, the inflammation damages the cartilage within a joint beyond repair, leading to chronic pain.What your vet will doIf you do need to call the vet, which is always a good idea if you arent sure what the cause is or how serious it might potentially be, the first thing your vet will do is ask you questions about your horses overall health, the signs of their condition and their severity, how long they have lasted, and any related medical history.The vet will then perform a physical examination of your horse, assessing and feeling their legs and joints, and possibly watching the horse walk and trot in order to assess any lameness.Your vet may also check your horses temperature and may opt to X-ray or scan your horses legs if injury or disease is likely.In the case of wounds, its also worth telling your vet when your horse last had a tetanus shot.How to treat a swollen legFor mild cases of swelling that have been assessed by your vet and arent linked to a specific injury or illness, the following treatments may be advised:Cold water/ ice bootsHosing your horses legs with cold water for up to 20 minutes will help to reduce any heat and inflammation while also offering a gentle massaging effect. Ice boots can also help to reduce heat and swelling follow the manufacturers instructions for correct usage times.Treating woundsIf the swelling and/ or heat is associated with a wound or abscess, your vet may want to clean and possibly stitch the wound, and drain, thoroughly clean and possibly poultice any abscess your horse may have.MedicationIn cases of cellulitis or lymphangitis, your vet may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. They may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications for any pain and swelling.Massage and bandagingIn order to improve the circulation and help any fluid dissipate, regular gentle massage can stimulate the circulation of blood in. your horses legs.Support bandages can be applied overnight when the horse is stabled to help prevent fluid accumulation.Be careful, however, not to wrap the bandage unevenly or too tightly, which can damage tendons.Always apply at least a one-inch thick layer of quilting underneath the wrap. If you are unsure of your bandaging skills, ask someone experienced for guidance.Get your horse movingExercise, daily turnout, regular sessions on the horse walker and/or in-hand walking will all help to encourage any swelling to dissipate and prevent accumulation of fluid.Basically, the more you can do to keep your horse moving especially at times of year when they might be stabled for longer periods of time the better.Check your horses dietFat horses or those on a diet too high in protein can suffer from swollen limbs, so its worth speaking to your nutritionist to check your horses diet is appropriate for his condition and current workload.Remember, it is in every horse, pony and donkeys interests to be #FitNotFat, and every equine owner has a responsibility to their charges to help them remain in peak health.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentHow to tell if a horse is lameChecking a horses vital signs *VIDEO*Impaction and gassy colic in horses explained5 things your horses vet really wishes you wouldnt doThe post Swollen legs in horses: possible causes and how to manage it appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland will host the annual 3 and 4-year-old filly, horse and pony loose jumping competition this September and October. These competitions are for three and four-year-old fillies and aim to identify young performance fillies that may be suitable for the breeding herd. There will be three qualifiers for horses with separate categories for 3yo and 4yo fillies. There will be a separate stand-alone competition for 3yo and 4yo filly ponies. The top two highest scoring fillies from theHORSE3yo and 4yo categories will be selected for the FINAL at each qualifier. The top ranked Traditional Irish Horse (TIH) filly will be awarded a prize in the 3- & 4-year-old horse loose jumping sections CLICK HERE to download the startlist for the Kernans Equestrian Centre 3 & 4 year old filly loose jumping competition. Entry Fees are payable directly to the venue. Entries may be accepted on the day; this []